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Dentistry vocabulary · Examination and X-rays

Check-up

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

/ˈtʃek ʌp/nounCore term

In dentistry, check-up means: A routine visit at which the dentist examines the teeth, gums and mouth to find problems early, often together with X-rays and a cleaning.

In Turkish: diş kontrolü, rutin muayene, kontrol muayenesi

How it is used

The usual word for patients and reception staff: come in for a check-up, be due for a check-up. Clinicians may say routine examination or recall exam. It is written check-up in British English and checkup in American English.

Example sentences

  1. You're due for a check-up next month. Shall I book you in?

  2. The cavity was found at a routine check-up.

Common collocations

  • routine check-up
  • dental check-up
  • be due for a check-up
  • six-month check-up
  • book a check-up
  • recallThe system of inviting patients back for regular check-ups, or the check-up appointment itself. The recall interval is the time between two such visits.
  • X-rayAn image of the teeth and bone made with a small dose of radiation. It shows problems the eye cannot see, such as decay between teeth, infection at a root tip or bone loss.
  • dental chartA diagram of all the teeth on which the dentist records which teeth are present, missing, decayed or filled, and what treatment is needed.
  • scalingProfessional removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth, above and below the gum line, using ultrasonic and hand instruments.

More terms: Examination and X-rays

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.